Hi, my name is Lucas. I'm Brazilian and I live in Rondônia, the Northern region of Brazil.
Some time ago, while studying, I discovered the impacts that the construction of hydroelectric power plants have on my state.
The biggest consequences are in the construction of dams and lakes. Therefore, I want to show you these impacts that are both social and environmental.
Flooding around the plant, which can be in small or large scale, inundates the forest areas. An example of a minor scale is the small lakes formed, of about 300 square kilometers. Whereas a large-scale flood would be the lake formed by the Samuel Hydroelectric Power Plant, an area of 500 square kilometers.
Consequently, we observe the release of polluting gases due to the decomposition of organic matter present in these areas and the destruction of the habitat of animals.
The displacement of individuals, who used to live in the vicinity of the hydroelectric power plant, and the loss of cultural heritage. Currently, in Brazil, about 40 to 80 thousand people have been displaced because of dams. In the 2014 flood in Porto Velho, about 4,000 were affected. In addition to urban residents, those mainly affected are indigenous groups and ethnic minorities.
Large dams cause the destruction of historic sites. As we can see, the Madeira Mamoré railroad was flooded due to the 2014 flood. A great Brazilian historical heritage, whose loss would bring a great void in the history of Rondônia. With this, we can see the problem brought by hydroelectric powerplants.
A source of energy that is advertised as clean and renewable. But it impacts directly and indirectly on the environment, as we have seen. In this way, there is no “cost/ benefit” in the production of energy through a hydroelectric power plant.
We have a low cost for implementation, but a high impact on Nature and the social environment.
Therefore, we should opt for less negatively impacting means of energy production. Like solar energy, on its being clean and renewable and does not harm the environment. Therefore, bringing greater sustainability to our planet, contributing to the 17 Goals proposed by UN..
Translation: Michael Mc Laughlin